what to do?

To all:

I have a nodule on my thyroid. A needle biopsy came back inconclusive (atypical). The Doctor has given me two options: (1) Remove the nodule and test it for cancer. If it is cancer then, a second surgery to remove the entire thyroid. (2) Remove the entire thyroid and be on medicine the rest of my life.The Doctor has said that the odds of the nodule being cancer are 25%. I am very much afraid of surgery and abhor the idea of a second surgery. On the other hand, will I have a better quality of life if only part of the thyroid is removed and it proves non-cancerous? My age is 61.I am in good health otherwise.
    
    Thank you for your help, Franny

[redheadaussie]

I had the same result with my first FNA. We decided to take half the thyroid out. It proved at pathology to have Follicular Adenoma (not cancer) I then had no need for medication as I still had my right side.  That was a relief that I did not have a cancer but was very stressful like you to decide what to do. Unfortunately for me the other side got more swollen and had to come out. I had a pre-cancer in it and in hindsight wish it had been removed at the same time as the first, but sadly, that's what hindsight is...hindsight!
   I wonder why the doctor is not saying only to have the side with the nodule removed. It is actually interesting to note that rarely do a nodule on one side affect the other. Have a discussion with your doc about that. That is an option.  
The surgery is actually not too bad, I have had my knee done twice and thyroid done twice and I still prefer the thyroid over that anyday
Good luck.

[Lexi72]

Hi,
i am 36 and 4 years ago I had my complete Thyroid removed due to inconclusive findings also.  They gave me an option as well and I chose to have my Thyroid removed.  I was of the mind better safe then sorry.  I did have Thyroid cancer but the kind I had was contained in the Thyroid.  It was extremely small.  I am on a pill for the rest of my life but feel great.  I do not feel any different then when I had my Thyroid.  I think it is a personal decision and I know you will make the right one.  I just wanted to share my story because I did have my Thyroid removed and am doing great.  I have done lots and lots of research on this and will answer any questions I have.  I don't have a medical degree but will offer any advice if you need.  Good luck!!!!!